Wheaton College Team Debates “Air-Sea Battle” on April 15

Wheaton College Team Debates “Air-Sea Battle” on April 15

Posted By Cantigny Park, Community Contributor

Posted By Cantigny Park, Community Contributor

Posted By Cantigny Park, Community Contributor

The First Division Museum at Cantigny Park welcomes the Wheaton College Debate team on Tuesday, April 15, at 7:30 pm. The award-winning team will debate the controversial doctrine under consideration by the U.S. Department of Defense called Air-Sea Battle.

Air-Sea Battle aims to counter efforts that restrict United States military access to certain areas of the world. The doctrine envisions that air and naval operations, including missiles launched from submarines, will be vital to defeating such efforts. The Air Force and Navy emphasize that the Western Pacific is where the U.S. is most likely to encounter hostile anti-access strategies.

Air-Sea Battle would impact the future of U.S. strategy and engagement in the world. It is controversial in part because it implies a very limited role for the U.S. Army and shifts funding priority to the Navy and Air Force. Some argue that the doctrine would also encourage China to increase its military capabilities and could lead to a war. Others say that the Middle East should still be America’s priority, pointing to the current war in Syria.

Spectators on April 15 will see the rules and procedures of an official parliamentary debate in action. Wheaton College’s parliamentary debate program began in 2003 and promotes the development of persuasive, articulate and critical thinking. Wheaton teams compete in the prestigious National Parliamentary Tournament of Excellence and consistently earn both debate and speaking awards at local, regional and national tournaments, including the National Parliamentary Debate Association championship.

Museum doors open at 6:45 pm. Admission and parking are complimentary. For more information, please call 630.260.8187 or visit FirstDivisionMuseum.org.